Open reduction via posterior triceps sparing approach in comparison with closed treatment of posteromedial displaced Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fractures

The anterior and medial open approaches yield superior outcomes compared to the lateral and posterior open approaches in supracondylar humerus fractures in children: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

This study aimed to perform a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) to examine which open approach is superior in terms of outcomes and complications in the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Clinicaltrials.gov , and Cochrane Library were searched from database inception to December 2022 and screened for relevant studies. Data were collected regarding patient demographics, Flynn's functional and cosmetic outcomes, and complications. Unsatisfactory Flynn's and complications were considered negative events. Comparisons of outcomes from aggregate data from each surgical approach using relative risk (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were performed. The NMA of overall negative events was conducted using a Bayesian hierarchical random-effects model analysis. A total of 26 studies involving 1461 patients were included; 459 (31.4%) patients underwent a closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP), 84 (5.7%) an anterior approach, 240 (16.4%) a medial, 220 (15%) a lateral, and 458 (31.3%) a posterior. The lateral and posterior approaches demonstrate a higher risk of negative event in the NMA compared to CRPP [RR = 2 (1.03, 3.85); RR = 2.63 (1.96, 3.57), respectively], anterior approach [RR = 3.33 (1.11, 10); RR = 4.35 (1.49, 12.5), respectively], and medial approach [RR = 1.82 (1.16, 2.86); RR = 2.38 (1.23, 4.76), respectively]. The medial approach resulted in a similar negative event rate compared to the anterior [RR = 1.82 (0.58, 5.88)]. The anterior and medial open approaches yield superior functional and cosmetic outcomes with fewer complications compared to the lateral and posterior.

Displaced Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture (Gartland Type II and III): The Impact of Wire Fixation Type

Introduction Supracondylar fractures are common in children. Percutaneous K-wire fixation is an accepted standard treatment for displaced supracondylar fractures in children, but the ideal wire configuration remains controversial. This study aimed to review the radiographic outcome and complications of Gartland type II and type III supracondylar fractures treated by the crossed and lateral K-wire fixation. Methods Seventy-five cases were retrospectively reviewed, 41 and 34 in crossed and lateral K-wire fixation groups, respectively. We studied patient demographics, fracture characteristics, different operative variables, and complications between the two groups. Results No significant difference was noted in patient demographics and the size of the wire used between the two groups. More type III fractures were fixed with crossed wires, 31 vs. 15 (75% vs. 44%, p = 0.019). Higher open reduction was also noted in the crossed-wire group. Loss of reduction between the crossed and the lateral groups was not significantly different, 15 vs. 13 (36.6% vs. 38.2%). The crossed-wire group had more iatrogenic nerve injury than the lateral wire group, 9 vs. 1 (22% vs. 3%, p = 0.0185). Higher complications were observed in the crossed-wire group than in the lateral-wire group, mainly due to iatrogenic nerve injury, 19 vs. 5 (46.3% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.0052). Higher technical errors of wire fixation were noted with lateral wire fixation than with crossed-wire fixation, 28 vs. 12 (82% vs. 29%, p = 0.00001). Conclusions Higher complications were noted with crossed wires, primarily due to iatrogenic nerve injury. Between the crossed and lateral wire groups, there were no statistically significant differences in loss of reduction and other complications. We support lateral wiring with appropriate techniques in treating types II and III supracondylar fractures to avoid iatrogenic nerve injury and other complications.

Complications and Outcomes of Surgically Treated Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

This study describes the outcome of supracondylar humerus fractures in children using crossed K-wires after closed or open reduction with the medial, lateral or bilateral approach. Patients treated between January 2000 and December 2019 were classified according to the Von Laer classification, complications were classified according to the Sink classification and clinical outcomes were classified according to modified Flynn criteria. In total, 364 patients with a mean age of 5.23 ± 2.45 years were included. The majority were type IV fractures (156; 42.9%) and 94 (60.3%) needed an open reduction for which the medial approach (53; 56.4%) was predominantly used. Overall, of 50 complications (31 using closed reduction, 19 open reduction), 17/50 (34%) needed revision surgery. An excellent clinical outcome was achieved in 348/364 (95.6%) patients. The approach used for open reduction as such had no influence on the complication rate or clinical outcome. For severely displaced fractures, the data showed that an open approach for crossed K-wires tended to result in fewer complications and better clinical outcomes than a closed reduction. If an open reduction is indicated, the required approach (medial, lateral or bilateral) should be primarily selected according to the requirements of the fracture pattern and eventual cosmetic considerations.

Kirschner Wire Prying and Leverage Technique: a new closed reduction method in treatment of pediatric "Irreducible Supracondylar Humerus Fractures"

BACKGROUND

This study employs an innovative closed reduction approach to treat pediatric "Irreducible Supracondylar Humerus Fractures" with the goal of demonstrating its practical application compared to conventional methods.

METHODS

This study sampled 146 surgically treated cases of "Irreducible Supracondylar Humerus Fractures" in our department. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 120 children were selected and divided into two groups based on treatment methods. Group 1 underwent Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Pinning (CRPP), while Group 2 received treatment using the Kirschner Wire Prying and Leverage Technique alongside CRPP. The relevant data to the study were collected and assessed during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

Results indicate that Group 2 demonstrated significantly shorter operative times and fewer instances of intraoperative fluoroscopy compared to Group 1. Furthermore, the percentage of cases requiring open reduction was notably higher in Group 1 than in Group 2. The analysis also identified age, BMI, time from injury to surgery, and the initial deviation of the distal fragment as independent risk factors associated with the failure of closed reduction. The integration of CRPP with the Kirschner Wire Prying and Leverage Technique emerges as a safe and effective strategy for managing "Irreducible Supracondylar Humerus Fractures." This innovative approach not only reduces operative time and intraoperative fluoroscopy needs but also diminishes the reliance on open reduction without compromising safety.

Kirschner wire reconstruction of medial and lateral column periosteal hinge in the treatment of multidirectionally unstable supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical effect of reconstruction of internal and lateral column periosteal hinge-assisted treatment with Kirschner wire and internal fixation with Kirschner wire in the treatment of multidirectional unstable supracondylar fractures of humerus in children.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 48 patients (31 male, 17 female; mean age: 6.7 ± 2.4 years old) with multidirectionally unstable supracondylar fractures of the humerus treated in our Hospital from August 2020 to August 2022. Twenty-five cases were treated with Kirschner wire reconstruction of the internal and lateral column periosteal hinge assisted by closed reduction and Kirschner wire internal fixation (study group). Twenty-three cases were treated with closed reduction and Kirschner wire internal fixation (control group). The operation time, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, percentage of patients who underwent open reduction after failure of closed reduction, fracture healing time, Baumann angle (BA), shaft-condylar angle (SCA), range of motion (ROM), and Flynn score of elbow at the last follow-up were compared between two groups. Complications such as infection and irritation of Kirschner wire tail were observed in two groups 2 months after the operation.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for 10-22 months ([13.85 ± 2.89] months). The average operation time of the control group was 82.1 min, which was significantly longer than that of the study group 32.3 min (P < 0.05). The number of intraoperative fluoroscopy (29.4 ± 9.2) in the control group was significantly higher than that in the study group (15.2 ± 6.3) (P < 0.05). The incision rate of the control group was 17% while that of the study group was 0 (P < 0.05). According to Flynn score, the excellent and good rate of the elbow joint in the control group was 86.9% (20/23). The excellent and good rate of the elbow joint in the study group was 92.0% (23/25) (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in fracture healing time, BA, SCA, and ROM between the two groups (P > 0.05). No infection or Kirschner wire tail irritation occurred in the two groups during the 2-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Reconstruction of internal and lateral periosteal hinges with Kirscher wire has similar effects to closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of multidirectionally unstable supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children, but it can shorten the operation time and reduce intraoperative fluoroscopy times and incision rate.

Risk factors for hardware-related complications after extra-articular distal humerus fracture fixation using an anatomical locking plate

PURPOSE

We aimed to identify the incidence and risk factors of hardware-related complications in patients treated with anatomical locking plate fixation for extra-articular distal humerus fractures.

METHODS

From 2013 to 2020, patients with extra-articular distal humerus fractures who underwent open reduction and internal fixation with an extra-articular distal humerus locking plate (EADHP) were retrospectively reviewed and categorized according to the presence/absence of hardware-related complications. Hardware-related complications were defined as the occurrence of skin prominence on the plate and discomfort in activities of daily living. Patient demographics, the lateral condylar angle, lateral body length, shaft-condylar angle of the humerus, and plate length were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 29 patients, 10 (34%) did not develop hardware-related complications (group A), whereas 19 (66%) did (group B). Patient demographics did not differ between the groups. However, the number of patients who underwent hardware removal was significantly greater in group B (16/19) than in group A (4/10; p = 0.032). Radiologic assessment revealed no significant difference in the lateral condylar or shaft-condylar angle. However, the lateral body length was greater in group A than in group B (44.5 ± 4.8 vs. 39.5 ± 3.7, p = 0.007). The plate length significantly differed between the groups. Twelve of 19 (63%) patients in group B received short-hole plates (six holes), while nine of ten (90%) patients in group A received long-hole plates (eight holes). In the multivariable analysis, the lateral body length of the distal humerus (p = 0.047, odds ratio = 0.734, 95% confidence interval: 0.542-0.996) and plate length (p = 0.036, odds ratio = 0.076, 95% confidence interval: 0.542-0.996) were associated with hardware-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients developed hardware-related complications, particularly with short plates, mainly because of the narrow lateral body length of the distal humerus. Surgeons should be careful to secure EADHP in the appropriate position, especially when short plates are used in patients with narrow lateral body length.

Treatment of grossly dislocated supracondylar humerus fractures after failed closed reduction: a retrospective analysis of different surgical approaches

INTRODUCTION

The supracondylar humerus fracture (SCHF) is one of the most common pediatric injuries. Highly displaced fractures can be very challenging. If closed reduction fails, the therapy algorithm remains controversial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 41 patients (21 boys and 20 girls) with irreducible Gartland type III SCHF, treated with open reduction through three different approaches and cross-pin fixation, were retrospectively evaluated. The mean follow-up was 46 months (min.: 12, max.: 83, SD: 23.9). The Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) as well as the quick disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (qDASH) score were used to assess the functional outcome. Baumann's angle and the anterior humeral line (AHL, Roger's line) were obtained from follow-up radiographs. Time to surgery, postoperative nerve-palsy, rate of revision surgery, and complication rate were examined.

RESULTS

Two revision surgeries were reported. One due to inadequate reduction and one due to secondary loss of reduction. In this context, the AHL was a sufficient tool to detect unsatisfactory reduction. According to the MEPS the functional outcome was excellent (> 90) in 37/41 patients and good (75-89) in 4/41 at the final visit. Fair or poor results were not documented. The qDASH score was 1.8 (min.: 0, max.: 13.6, SD: 3.4). There were no significant differences between the utilized surgical approaches. An iatrogenic injury of the ulnar nerve was not reported in any case. Overall, one heterotopic ossification without impairment of the range of motion and one preliminary affection of the radial nerve were documented.

CONCLUSION

In the rare case of an irreducible SCHF, an anatomical reduction can be achieved by open approaches with excellent functional outcome and a high grade of patient satisfaction. All described open approaches can be utilized with a high safety-level.

Interventions for treating supracondylar elbow fractures in children

BACKGROUND

Elbow supracondylar fractures are common, with treatment decisions based on fracture displacement. However, there remains controversy regarding the best treatments for this injury.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of interventions for treating supracondylar elbow fractures in children.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and Embase in March 2021. We also searched trial registers and reference lists. We applied no language or publication restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing different interventions for the treatment of supracondylar elbow fractures in children. We included studies investigating surgical interventions (different fixation techniques and different reduction techniques), surgical versus non-surgical treatment, traction types, methods of non-surgical intervention, and timing and location of treatment.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We collected data and conducted GRADE assessment for five critical outcomes: functional outcomes, treatment failure (requiring re-intervention), nerve injury, major complications (pin site infection in most studies), and cosmetic deformity (cubitus varus).  MAIN RESULTS: We included 52 trials with 3594 children who had supracondylar elbow fractures; most were Gartland 2 and 3 fractures. The mean ages of children ranged from 4.9 to 8.4 years and the majority of participants were boys. Most studies (33) were conducted in countries in South-East Asia. We identified 12 different comparisons of interventions: retrograde lateral wires versus retrograde crossed wires; lateral crossed (Dorgan) wires versus retrograde crossed wires; retrograde lateral wires versus lateral crossed (Dorgan) wires; retrograde crossed wires versus posterior intrafocal wires; retrograde lateral wires in a parallel versus divergent configuration; retrograde crossed wires using a mini-open technique or inserted percutaneously; buried versus non-buried wires; external versus internal fixation; open versus closed reduction; surgical fixation versus non-surgical immobilisation; skeletal versus skin traction; and collar and cuff versus backslab. We report here the findings of four comparisons that represent the most substantial body of evidence for the most clinically relevant comparisons.  All studies in these four comparisons had unclear risks of bias in at least one domain. We downgraded the certainty of all outcomes for serious risks of bias, for imprecision when evidence was derived from a small sample size or had a wide confidence interval (CI) that included the possibility of benefits or harms for both treatments, and when we detected the possibility of publication bias.  Retrograde lateral wires versus retrograde crossed wires (29 studies, 2068 children) There was low-certainty evidence of less nerve injury with retrograde lateral wires (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.90; 28 studies, 1653 children). In a post hoc subgroup analysis, we noted a greater difference in the number of children with nerve injuries when lateral wires were compared to crossed wires inserted with a  percutaneous medial wire technique (RR 0.41, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.81, favours lateral wires; 10 studies, 552 children), but little difference when an open technique was used (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.40, favours lateral wires; 11 studies, 656 children). Although we noted a statistically significant difference between these subgroups from the interaction test (P = 0.05), we could not rule out the possibility that other factors could account for this difference. We found little or no difference between the interventions in major complications, which were described as pin site infections in all studies (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.79; 19 studies, 1126 children; low-certainty evidence). For functional status (1 study, 35 children), treatment failure requiring re-intervention (1 study, 60 children), and cosmetic deformity (2 studies, 95 children), there was very low-certainty evidence showing no evidence of a difference between interventions. Open reduction versus closed reduction (4 studies, 295 children) Type of reduction method may make little or no difference to nerve injuries (RR 0.30, 95% CI 0.09 to 1.01, favours open reduction; 3 studies, 163 children). However, there may be fewer major complications (pin site infections) when closed reduction is used (RR 4.15, 95% CI 1.07 to 16.20; 4 studies, 253 children). The certainty of the evidence for these outcomes is low. No studies reported functional outcome, treatment failure requiring re-intervention, or cosmetic deformity. The four studies in this comparison used direct visualisation during surgery. One additional study used a joystick technique for reduction, and we did not combine data from this study in analyses. Surgical fixation using wires versus non-surgical immobilisation using a cast (3 studies, 140 children) There was very low-certainty evidence showing little or no difference between interventions for treatment failure requiring re-intervention (1 study, 60 children), nerve injury (3 studies, 140 children), major complications (3 studies, 126 children), and cosmetic deformity (2 studies, 80 children). No studies reported functional outcome. Backslab versus sling (1 study, 50 children) No nerve injuries or major complications were experienced by children in either group; this evidence is of very low certainty. Functional outcome, treatment failure, and cosmetic deformity were not reported.  AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: We found insufficient evidence for many treatments of supracondylar fractures. Fixation of displaced supracondylar fractures with retrograde lateral wires compared with crossed wires provided the most substantial body of evidence in this review, and our findings indicate that there may be a lower risk of nerve injury with retrograde lateral wires. In future trials of treatments, we would encourage the adoption of a core outcome set, which includes patient-reported measures. Evaluation of the effectiveness of traction compared with surgical fixation would provide a valuable addition to this clinical field.

Lateral versus posterior surgical approach for the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Supracondylar humeral fracture (SHF) is the most common type of fracture in children. Moreover, lateral and posterior surgical approaches are the most frequently chosen approaches for open reduction surgery in displaced SHF when C-arm is unavailable. However, previous literature showed mixed findings regarding functional and cosmetic outcomes. Currently, no systematic review and meta-analysis has compared these two procedures.  Methods: Our protocol was registered at PROSPERO (registration number  CRD42021213763). We conducted a comprehensive electronic database search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Two independent reviewers screened the title and abstract, followed by full-text reading and study selection based on eligibility criteria. The quality of the selected studies was analyzed with the ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis was carried out to compare the range of motion (functional outcome) and cosmetic outcome according to Flynn's criteria. This systematic review was conducted based on PRISMA and Cochrane handbook guidelines.  Results: Our initial search yielded 163 studies, from which we included five comparative studies comprising 231 children in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. The lateral approach was more likely to result in excellent (OR 1.69, 95% CI [0.97-2.93]) and good (OR 1.12, 95% CI [0.61-2.04]) functional outcomes and less likely to result in fair (OR 0.84, 95% CI [0.34-2.13]) and poor (OR 0.42, 95% CI [0.1-1.73]) functional outcomes compared to the posterior approach. In terms of cosmetic results, both approaches showed mixed findings. The lateral approach was more likely to result in excellent (OR 1.11, 95% CI [0.61-2.02]) and fair (OR 1.18, 95% CI [0.49-2.80]) but less likely to result in good (OR 0.79, 95% CI [0.40-1.55]) cosmetic outcomes. However, none of these analyses were statistically significant (p> 0.05).  Conclusion: Lateral and posterior surgical approaches resulted in satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes. The two approaches are comparable for treating SHF in children when evaluated with Flynn's criteria.

Lateral versus posterior surgical approach for the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Supracondylar humeral fracture (SHF) is the most common type of fracture in children. Moreover, lateral and posterior surgical approaches are the most frequently chosen approaches for open reduction surgery in displaced SHF when C-arm is unavailable. However, previous literature showed mixed findings regarding functional and cosmetic outcomes. Currently, no systematic review and meta-analysis has compared these two procedures.  Methods: Our protocol was registered at PROSPERO (registration number  CRD42021213763). We conducted a comprehensive electronic database search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Two independent reviewers screened the title and abstract, followed by full-text reading and study selection based on eligibility criteria. The quality of the selected studies was analyzed with the ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis was carried out to compare the range of motion (functional outcome) and cosmetic outcome according to Flynn's criteria. This systematic review was conducted based on PRISMA and Cochrane handbook guidelines.  Results: Our initial search yielded 163 studies, from which we included five comparative studies comprising 231 children in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. The lateral approach was more likely to result in excellent (OR 1.69, 95% CI [0.97-2.93]) and good (OR 1.12, 95% CI [0.61-2.04]) functional outcomes and less likely to result in fair (OR 0.84, 95% CI [0.34-2.13]) and poor (OR 0.42, 95% CI [0.1-1.73]) functional outcomes compared to the posterior approach. In terms of cosmetic results, both approaches showed mixed findings. The lateral approach was more likely to result in excellent (OR 1.11, 95% CI [0.61-2.02]) and fair (OR 1.18, 95% CI [0.49-2.80]) but less likely to result in good (OR 0.79, 95% CI [0.40-1.55]) cosmetic outcomes. However, none of these analyses were statistically significant (p> 0.05).  Conclusion: Lateral and posterior surgical approaches resulted in satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes. The two approaches are comparable for treating SHF in children when evaluated with Flynn's criteria.

Lateral versus posterior surgical approach for the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Supracondylar humeral fracture (SHF) is the most common type of fracture in children. Moreover, lateral and posterior surgical approaches are the most frequently chosen approaches for open reduction surgery in displaced SHF when closed reduction fails. However, previous literature showed mixed findings regarding functional and cosmetic outcomes. Currently, no systematic review and meta-analysis has compared these two procedures.  Methods: Our protocol was registered at PROSPERO (registration number  CRD42021213763). We conducted a comprehensive electronic database search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Two independent reviewers screened the title and abstract, followed by full-text reading and study selection based on eligibility criteria. The quality of the selected studies was analyzed with the ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis was carried out to compare the range of motion (functional outcome) and cosmetic outcome according to Flynn's criteria. This systematic review was conducted based on PRISMA and Cochrane handbook guidelines.  Results: Our initial search yielded 163 studies, from which we included five comparative studies comprising 231 children in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. The lateral approach was more likely to result in excellent (OR 1.69, 95% CI [0.97-2.93]) and good (OR 1.12, 95% CI [0.61-2.04]) functional outcomes and less likely to result in fair (OR 0.84, 95% CI [0.34-2.13]) and poor (OR 0.42, 95% CI [0.1-1.73]) functional outcomes compared to the posterior approach. In terms of cosmetic results, both approaches showed mixed findings. The lateral approach was more likely to result in excellent (OR 1.11, 95% CI [0.61-2.02]) and fair (OR 1.18, 95% CI [0.49-2.80]) but less likely to result in good (OR 0.79, 95% CI [0.40-1.55]) cosmetic outcomes. However, none of these analyses were statistically significant (p> 0.05).  Conclusion: Lateral and posterior surgical approaches resulted in satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes. The two approaches are comparable for treating SHF in children when evaluated with Flynn's criteria.

Health-related quality of life after paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures

AIMS

We aimed to evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with supracondylar humeral fractures (SCHFs), who were treated following the recommendations of the Paediatric Comprehensive AO Classification, and to assess if HRQoL was associated with AO fracture classification, or fixation with a lateral external fixator compared with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP).

METHODS

We were able to follow-up on 775 patients (395 girls, 380 boys) who sustained a SCHF from 2004 to 2017. Patients completed questionnaires including the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH; primary outcome), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL).

RESULTS

An AO type I SCHF was most frequent (327 children; type II: 143; type III: 150; type IV: 155 children). All children with type I fractures were treated nonoperatively. Two children with a type II fracture, 136 with a type III fracture, and 141 children with a type IV fracture underwent CRPP. In the remaining 27 children with type III or IV fractures, a lateral external fixator was necessary for closed reduction. There were no open reductions. After a mean follow-up of 6.3 years (SD 3.7), patients with a type I fracture had a mean QuickDASH of 2.0 (SD 5.2), at a scale of 0 to 100, with lower values representing better HRQoL (type II: 2.8 (SD 10.7); type III: 3.3 (SD 8.0); type IV: 1.8 (SD 4.6)). The mean function score of the PedsQL ranged from 97.4 (SD 8.0) for type I to 96.1 (SD 9.1) for type III fractures, at a scale of 0 to 100, with higher values representing better HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of 775 patients in whom nonoperative treatment was chosen for AO type I and II fractures and CRPP or a lateral external fixator was used in AO type III and IV fractures, there was equally excellent mid- and long-term HRQoL when assessed by the QuickDASH and PedsQL. These results indicate that the treatment protocol followed in this study is unambiguous, avoids open reductions, and is associated with excellent treatment outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6):755-765.

Treatment in a Nonpediatric Hospital Is a Risk Factor for Open Reduction of Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures: A Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the distribution of open versus closed treatment and its relationship with the location of care in pediatric specialty versus general hospitals.

METHODS

Patient data were extracted from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's Kid's Inpatient Database for the years 2000-2012. ICD9-CM diagnosis and procedure codes were used to identify open versus closed treatment of closed supracondylar humerus fractures in children younger than 12 years. A multilevel logistic regression model to control for confounders and identify drivers of open treatment was used.

RESULTS

An estimated 40,706 inpatient surgical fixation procedures met our inclusion criteria. Overall rate of open treatment was 13.65%. Fractures were less likely to be treated open at pediatric hospitals versus general hospitals 7.61% versus 16.13% (P < 0.0001). Over the study period, rates of open treatment have fallen at nonpediatric hospitals from 20.21% in 2000 to 17.42% in 2012 (P < 0.001) but have remained stable at pediatric hospitals: 7.8% in 2000 and 8.62% in 2012 (P = 0.4369). Mean hospital length of stay was higher for patients who had open treatment 1.63 versus 1.20 days (P < 0.0001), and mean hospital charges were higher for patients who had open treatment $21,465 versus $15,026 (P < 0.0001). After controlling for time trends as well as demographic and hospital characteristics with a logistic regression model, treatment at a nonpediatric hospital was the single most significant predictor of open treatment for an isolated closed supracondylar humerus fractures with an odds ratio of 1.96 (95% confidence interval 1.56-2.46; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this comprehensive population-based study of risk factors for open treatment of supracondylar humerus fractures in the United States, we identified differences in practice patterns by hospital type. Pediatric supracondylar fractures of the elbow have almost twice the odds of open treatment at nonpediatric hospitals.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Rate of Open Reduction for Supracondylar Humerus Fractures Varies Across Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeons: A Single-Institution Analysis

OBJECTIVES

To (1) define a single institution's rate of open reduction for operative pediatric supracondylar humerus (SCH) fractures; (2) describe variability by surgeon in rates of irreducible fracture (IRF) and open reduction; and (3) determine whether variation in opening rate correlated with surgeon experience.

DESIGN

Retrospective analytic study.

SETTING

Urban tertiary care Level 1 trauma center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Twelve fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedists.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Rate of open reduction for operatively treated SCH fractures (OTA/AO 13-M/3).

RESULTS

One thousand two hundred twenty-nine type II SCH fractures (none of which required open reduction) were excluded from the analysis. A total of 1365 other SCH fractures were included: 1302 type III fractures, 27 type IV fractures, and 36 fractures with unspecified type. 2.9% of type III and 22.2% of type IV fractures required open reduction. None of the injuries with unspecified type required open reduction. The rate of open reduction among 11 surgeons ranged from 0% to 15.0% in type III-IV fractures (P = 0.001). 86% (38/44) of open reductions were performed for IRF. In regression analysis, patient age was associated with open reduction for IRF (odds ratio 1.22, P = 0.001), but surgeon years-in-practice (0.321) and number of previous cases (0.327) were not associated with open reduction. Other indications for opening included suspected vascular or neurologic injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Open reduction was rarely performed in this sample, but IRF was the dominant indication for opening. We found true variation in surgeons' rates of performing open reductions. More experience was not correlated with decreased likelihood of open reduction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparison of the lateral and posterior approaches in the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures

This study explored the radiological, functional, and cosmetic results of treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures with open reduction and percutaneous pinning, comparing posterior triceps V-splitting (group I, n=22) and lateral (group II, n=25) approaches. The time to union, the functional and cosmetic results, and the flexor and extensor muscle strengths were measured and compared with the contralateral extremities. There were no statistical differences between the groups. The V-splitting posterior approach is as safe and effective as the lateral approach in the surgical treatment of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures.

Experience and volume are determinantive factors for operative management of supracondylar humeral fractures in children

BACKGROUND

We compared radiographic and operative results of pediatric patients undergoing surgical treatment of displaced supracondylar humeral fracture (SCHF) according to the surgeon's experience.

METHODS

During an 11-year period (2006-2016), we reviewed the medical records of 236 patients operated on for Gartland III SCHF in our institution. Operative (operative time, time to implants removal) and radiographic parameters (Baumann and lateral capitellohumeral angles) were assessed. A malalignment was defined if there was a difference in the Baumann angle or lateral capitellohumeral angles >15° or if malrotation existed compared with normative values. We compared surgeon experience and volume (number of patients operated on by year).

RESULTS

In patients operated on by less experienced surgeons (<1 year, n = 69), operative time (61 vs. 41 minutes) and time to implant removal (48 vs. 40 days) were significantly longer (P < .001). Radiographic parameters did not differ between less and more experienced surgeons. Operative parameters improved through the 20 first cases of the younger surgeons. In surgeons managing fewer than 5 patients per year, malalignment and conversion to open reduction were more frequent (all P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Experience and volume are 2 crucial parameters influencing the quality of management of pediatric patients undergoing surgical treatment for displaced SCHF. They should be taken into account in daily practice, especially when making the decision to operate on these patients out of day time.

The Effect of the Pucker Sign on Outcomes of Type III Extension Supracondylar Fractures in Children

BACKGROUND

The pucker sign, also called skin tenting, indicates significant displacement of the supracondylar fracture and can be a cause for alarm. The purpose of this study is to compare a cohort of patients with type III supracondylar fractures presenting with a pucker sign to a group without a pucker sign by evaluating neurovascular injury at presentation, need for open reduction, persistent neurovascular injury, range of motion, and carrying angle at final follow-up.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed for Gartland type III extension type supracondylar fractures. Those with a pucker sign were identified and evaluated. Type III supracondylar fractures with a pucker sign were compared with a similar cohort without a pucker sign.

RESULTS

In total, 12 patients with a pucker sign at an average age of 5.2 years were evaluated. A total of 11 patients (92%) had diminished or absent pulses, and 2 (17%) had weakness in the median nerve distribution. Nine (75%) patients in this group were transferred to the university hospital. Average time to surgery was 8.9 hours with an average operating time of 25.1 minutes. Open reduction was not needed in any case. At an average follow-up of 4.7 months no patients had persistent neurovascular compromise. Two patients lacked <5 degrees of extension and 1 lacked 10 degrees of extension. One patient lacked 10 degrees of flexion. No patients had a change in carrying angle difference compared with the contralateral side. No statistical differences were observed between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Pucker sign, in the context of a supracondylar fracture of the humerus, is a soft tissue defect with potential entrapment of median nerve and brachial artery. At a maximum time of 16 hours from injury to surgery we report excellent outcomes and no long-term complications. Using the techniques of gradual traction, and milking the soft tissue, the pucker sign can be eliminated. Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning were performed in all the cases.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Gartland Type 3 Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in Children: Which Open Reduction Approach Should Be Used After Failed Closed Reduction?

OBJECTIVES

For displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in children, in the event of closed reduction failure, anatomic reduction is achieved via open reduction techniques; however, there are no confirmative reports among the published open reduction approaches that deliver the best functional and cosmetic results. Here, we compared long-term functional and cosmetic results of different surgical approaches.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Ankara Education and Research Hospital/Turkey. Secondary care hospital and trauma center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

We evaluated 70 surgically treated Gartland type 3 supracondylar humeral fractures. Patients, with detailed history record, were divided into 5 groups with respect to surgery methods.

INTERVENTION

All patients were treated surgically using closed reduction and percutaneous pinning or 4 different open reduction approaches and percutaneous pinning.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Flynn cosmetic and functional score results were compared between surgical groups.

RESULTS

Posterior open reduction and triceps transection groups showed worst results, whereas medial and lateral open reduction groups showed good to excellent results similar to closed reduction group.

CONCLUSION

Medial and lateral approaches demonstrated better functional results than posterior and triceps transection approaches. Posterior approaches lead to restrictions in extension and poor functional results. In the posterior approach, transecting triceps from olecranon does not benefit from fracture reduction but results in loss of triceps strength and should be avoided. In failed closed reduction, medial and lateral open reduction approaches lead to similar cosmetic outcomes and functional results that are only slightly worse compared with those in closed reduction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Multicenter Study of Pin Site Infections and Skin Complications Following Pinning of Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

Introduction: Pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common elbow fractures in pediatric patients. Surgical fixation using pins is the primary treatment for displaced fractures. Pin site infections may follow supracondylar humerus fracture fixation; the previously reported incidence rate in the literature is 2.34%, but there is significant variability in reported incidence rates of pin site infection. This study aims to define the incidence rate and determine pre-, peri-, and postoperative factors that may contribute to pin site infection following operative reduction, pinning, and casting.

Methods: A retrospective chart analysis was performed over a one-year period on patients that developed pin site infection. A cast care form was added to Nemours’ electronic medical records (EMR) system (Epic Systems Corp., Verona, WI) to identify pin site infections for retrospective review. The cast care form noted any inflamed or infected pins. Patients with inflamed or infected pin sites underwent a detailed chart review. Preoperative antibiotic use, number and size of pins used, method of postoperative immobilization, pin dressings, whether postoperative immobilization was changed prior to pin removal, and length of time pins were in place was recorded.

Results: A total of 369 patients underwent operative reduction, pinning, and casting. Three patients developed a pin site infection. The pin site infection incidence rate was 3/369=0.81%. Descriptive statistics were reported for the three patients that developed pin site infections and three patients that developed pin site complications.

Conclusion: Pin site infection development is low. Factors that may contribute to the development of pin site infection include preoperative antibiotic use, length of time pins are left in, and changing the cast prior to pin removal.

A comparative study of two closed reduction methods for pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures

BACKGROUND

No randomized controlled studies have confirmed the advantages of the joystick technique over the traditional manual traction. The objective of this study was to compare the results of the joystick technique and the traditional manual traction for facilitating closed reduction of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures.

METHODS

From February 2009 to December 2012, sixty eight children were included in this study. Group A included 34 fractures reduced by the joystick technique. Group B consisted of 34 fractures reduced by the traditional manual traction. Preoperative demographic data were comparable between the two groups. The operative time, fluoroscopy time, hospitalization time, time to bone union, complications were recorded in both groups. Radiologic and functional results were assessed using the Flynn scoring system.

RESULTS

Closed reduction was successfully done in all the fractures of Group A while traditional closed manipulation was successfully done in 25 fractures of Group B and 9 fractures failed. There was a significant difference between the two groups in the rate of failed closed reduction (P = 0.004). The mean operative time was 30.5 ± 9.0 and 48.2 ± 16.4 min, and the mean fluoroscopy time was 25.4 ± 10.5 s and 55.0 ± 21.2 s in Group A and Group B, respectively. Both the operative time and fluoroscopy time were significantly longer in Group B (P < 0.001 and 0.001, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in terms of the mean hospitalization time, mean union time, total complications, the Flynn scores between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The joystick technique should be chosen to facilitate closed reduction if traditional manual traction failed to yield an acceptable reduction.

Humeral Supracondylar Fractures in Children: A Novel Technique of Lateral External Fixation and Kirschner Wiring

Introduction: Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common fracture around the elbow in children. Pinning with Kirschner wires (K-wires) after open or closed reduction is generally accepted as the primary treatment modality. However, it comes with the risk of persistent instability and if the K-wire is not inserted properly, it may cause displacement and varus deformity. We present our two-year experience with a new technique of lateral external fixation and K-wiring of the humeral supracondylar fracture. Materials and Methods: A total of seven children with irreducible Gartland Type III supracondylar humeral fracture were treated with closed reduction and lateral external fixation and lateral Kirschner wiring. Patients with ipsilateral radial or ulnar fracture, open fracture and presence of neurovascular impairment pre-operatively were excluded. All the patients were followed up at one, three and six weeks and three and six months. The final outcomes were assessed based on Flynn's criteria. Results: All the patients achieved satisfactory outcomes in terms of cosmetic and functional aspects. All patients except one (85.5%) regained excellent and good cosmetic and functional status. One patient (14.3%) sustained pin site infection which resolved with oral antibiotic (Checketts- Otterburn grade 2). There was no neurological deficit involving the ulnar nerve and radial nerve. Conclusion: The introduction of lateral external fixation and lateral percutaneous pinning provide a promising alternative method for the treatment of humeral supracondylar fracture. This study demonstrates that it has satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes with no increased risk of complications compared to percutaneous pinning.

Distal humerus fractures: a review of current therapy concepts

Fractures of the distal humerus in the adult comprise approximately one third of all humeral fractures. Successful management of distal humerus fractures depends on correct reduction of the fracture, reconstruction of the articular surface if needed, stability and rigidity of the fixation, and appropriate rehabilitation. In this review, we evaluated the available literature and highlighted current therapy concepts. We assessed the evolution of internal fixation and elbow arthroplasty focusing on the established surgical approaches against the background of a growing incidence of distal humeral fractures in an aging patient population. Therefore evaluating the aspect and influence of age-dependent comorbidities like osteoporosis on successful treatment.

The outcome and parents-based cosmetic satisfaction following fixation of paediatric supracondylar humerus fractures treated by closed method with or without small medial incision

Supracondylar humerus fractures are common in children. Displaced fractures are usually treated with closed reduction and cross pin fixation. But, medial pinning may cause the ulnar nerve injury. The aim of this study was to compare the parents-based cosmetic satisfaction of the incision scars in children with displaced supracondylar humerus fractures treated by closed reduction and cross pin fixation with or without small medial incision. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 72 children with displaced supracondylar humerus fractures treated two different closed reduction and percutaneous pinning methods at our institution from January 2010 through December 2013. A group has 36 patients treated with small medial incision and crossed K-wires fixation after closed reduction. The other group has 36 patients treated with closed reduction and K-wires fixation. At the final follow-up, the patients were evaluated radiologically and clinically with Flynn’s criteria. Furthermore, a visual analogue scale was used to determine of the parents-based cosmetic satisfaction score. All fractures healed without major complications at the final clinical and radiological assessment. Although, between the two groups did not differ in terms of Flynn cosmetic and functional outcomes, there were statistically significant differences between both groups according to the parents-based cosmetic satisfaction scores. The closed reduction and crossed pin fixation without small medial incision should be preferred first because of better the parents-based cosmetic satisfaction.

[Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of humeral supracondylar fractures in pediatric patients in a Regional General Hospital]

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar humerus fractures are common in children between 5-7 years of age and more frequent in the males, 90-95% of these fractures are in extension mechanism, the urgency of immediate attention is to prevent complications and sequelae.

OBJECTIVE

To establish the clinical and epidemiological profile of supracondylar humerus fractures, in a General Regional Hospital from the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social in Yucatan Mexico, during 2011-2013.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study. Strength association was measured by odds ratios and statistical significance with chi(2) test, p value was considered in < 0.05 RESULTS: 56 cases were analyzed, the mean age was 2.6 ± 5.33 years, the mechanism of injury was falling over at home, male gender is associated with extent injure mechanism (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.0-30.1, p = 0.03), we observed that at most time elapsed between injury and medical means more hospital days (r = 0.40; p = 0.002), surgical treatment was established in 44 cases (78.6%), 18 (40.9%) with closed technique and placement of cloves and 26 (59.1%) with open reduction, in 100% cross configuration was used, ten complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Supracondylar humerus fractures are a common injury in children, males are more likely to be injured by extension, and the speed in medical treatment is an important issue.

Open Reduction Techniques for Supracondylar Humerus Fractures in Children

Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common elbow fractures in children. Displaced supracondylar humerus fractures that are associated with neurologic and/or vascular injuries are treated with timely reduction through closed techniques. When closed techniques fail, reduction by open methods is indicated. Controversy exists as to which surgical approach yields the best outcomes in terms of cosmetic and functional results, while minimizing postoperative complications. Open reduction, when indicated, has been shown to yield good outcomes when closed reduction methods fail.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of displaced Supracondylar Fractures of Humerus with Crossed K-wires via Medial Approach

This study aimed at evaluating the medial approach for open reduction and internal fixation of Gartland type 3 displaced supracondylar fractures of humerus in children. A prospective, single centre study of on displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in 42 children was carried out at our institute. All fractures were managed with open reduction and internal fixation with crossed K-wires via medial approach. The mean follow-up was 12 months and patients were assessed according to Flynn’s criteria. No patients had post-operative ulnar nerve injury. Cubitus varus was not seen in any patient. Superficial pin tract infection occurred in three patients that subsided with anti-septic dressings and antibiotics. No deep infection occurred. 88.09 % patients showed satisfactory results as per Flynn’s criteria. The medial approach provides an excellent view of the supracondylar area. The approach is convenient due to a lower risk for ulnar nerve injury and better acceptability of the medial incisional scar.

Factors associated with a failed closed reduction for supracondylar fractures in children

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The aim of this retrospective study is to analyze the risk factors causing the failure of closed reduction of children supracondylar fracture.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The children with supracondylar humerus fractures who were treated in our hospital from February 2008 to February 2013, were recorded as well as their age, sex, BMI, injured side, mechanism of injury, associated injuries, fracture type, delay from injury to surgery. Mean comparisons or Chi(2) test were used for univariate analysis of the above factors, and then multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyse the possible risk factors, in order to elicit the risk factors associated with a failed closed reduction for supracondylar fractures in children.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis showed that BMI, fracture type, duration from injury to surgery, and mechanism of injury had statistically significant association with the failure of closed reduction for children supracondylar fracture (*P=0.021, 0.044, 0.000 and 0.037 respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that fracture type (P=0.027, OR=1.177), time from injury to surgery (P=0.022, OR=2.003), and mechanism of injury (P=0.044, OR=4.182) were independent risk factors of a failed closed reduction for paediatric supracondylar fractures.

DISCUSSIONS

Gartland type III supracondylar fractures, the peak period of soft tissue swelling and high-energy injury are significant risk factors to warrant open reduction. Treating surgeons should preoperatively carefully evaluate these risk factors and be prepared to treat these injuries accordingly.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV retrospective study.

A meta-analysis of external fixator versus intramedullary nails for open tibial fracture fixation

BACKGROUND

To compare the clinical outcomes of external fixator (EF) and intramedullary nails (IN) in the treatment of open tibial fractures.

METHODS

We searched seven electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, OVID, Cochrane library, CNKI, and CBM) for trials of tibial fracture fixation published from 1980 to 2013. The indicators including postoperative infection, malunion, nonunion, soft tissue injury, delayed healing, and healing time were used for quantitative outcome assessments.

RESULTS

A total of nine trials involving 532 patients (EF, n = 253; IN, n = 279) with open tibia fractures were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicated that the patients undergoing IN had lower incidence of postoperative infection (risk radio [RR] = 3.85; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 2.67-5.54; P < 0.0001), malunion (RR = 2.31; 95% CI, 1.40-3.81; P = 0.001), nonunion (RR = 1.41; 95% CI, 1.06-1.88; P = 0.02) and less healing time (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 6.19; 95% CI, 1.42-10.96; P = 0.01) compared with EF. However, regarding to the soft tissue injury (RR = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.34-1.62; P = 0.45) and delayed healing (RR = 1.38; 95% CI, 0.79-2.43; P = 0.26), there is no significantly difference between EF and IN approach.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the use of IN is more effective than EF and may be considered as first-line approach in fixation of open tibial fractures.

A new joystick technique for unsuccessful closed reduction of supracondylar humeral fractures: minimum trauma

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare operation duration, radiological and functional results of the open reduction with either posterior or lateral approach and closed reduction with joystick method in unsuccessful closed reduction of displaced (Gartland type III) supracondylar humeral fractures.

METHODS

Between February 2010 and August 2011, 37 patients who were not obtained satisfactory reduction with classic closed reduction attempts for three times in operating room were included in this study. Patients were treated with three different surgical methods. Group I have 13 patients who had joystick and lateral K-wire-assisted closed reduction, group II have 12 patients who had open reduction by lateral approach, and group III have 12 patients who had open reduction by posterior approach. In final follow-up, AP and lateral radiographs of both elbows were taken and bilateral Baumann angles, lateral humerocapitellar angles, carrying angles, and elbow range of motion were measured. These angles and operation times compared between the groups. The functional and cosmetic outcome of surgery was evaluated by criteria of Flynn et al.

RESULTS

There was no statistical significance difference between Baumann angles, lateral humerocapitellar angles, and carrying angles of fractured and uninjured sides in between three groups (respectively, p = 0.761, p = 0.354, p = 0.750). In group I, operation duration is shorter than the other groups. Functional scoring showed that in group I and group II, all patients have satisfactory results; however, in group III, three patients (25%) had poor results. In the perspective of cosmetic results, all three groups have satisfactory results.

CONCLUSIONS

When classical closed reduction fail, lateral joystick and K-wire-assisted reduction is a useful way to make and maintain the reduction. Functional and radiological results are as good as lateral and posterior open approaches. Short operation time is an advantage. This method reduces the risk of complications due to repeated closed reduction and open reduction in unsuccessful closed reduction in pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Comparing approaches to expose type C fractures of the distal humerus for ORIF in elderly patients: six years clinical experience with both the triceps-sparing approach and olecranon osteotomy

BACKGROUND

Although open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a standard fracture treatment method, the optimal way to expose a fracture prior to ORIF is debated. We compared the effects of two exposure methods, the triceps-sparing approach and olecranon osteotomy, on the functional outcomes of ORIF-treated type C distal humerus fractures in elderly people.

METHODS

From January 2006 to January 2011, 75 elderly patients with type C distal humerus fractures were treated with ORIF, and we retrospectively reviewed their medical records, radiographs, and follow-up charts to identify any complications. Patients' Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and range of motion were determined at their final clinic visit.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven patients (89 %) attended the final visit. Of these patients, 36 received olecranon osteotomy and 31 received the triceps-sparing approach. For patients with type C1 and C2 fractures, we observed reductions in procedure times, blood loss, complication rates, and MEPS outcomes (all P < 0.01) with the triceps-sparing approach compared with olecranon osteotomy. Except for MEPS outcomes, all of these approach-related improvements were also statistically significantly for type C3 fractures (all P < 0.01). Overall, we did not observe any cases of fracture nonunion, implantation breakage or loosening, or elbow stiffening in our series.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, we found better functional outcomes for type C1 and C2 distal humerus fractures that were exposed using the triceps-sparing approach rather than olecranon osteotomy. Even for the most complex type of fracture, C3 fractures, similar recoveries in elbow function were achieved using either approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

The epidemiology of paediatric supracondylar fracture fixation: a population-based study

INTRODUCTION

The epidemiology of paediatric supracondylar fracture (SCF) fixation has not been evaluated at a population level. The purpose of this study was to: (1) determine the incidence density rate (IDR) of SCF fixation and (2) determine the rate of and risk factors for re-operation.

METHODS

Using administrative databases, all patients who underwent SCF fixation (closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) or open reduction (OR)) in Ontario between April 2002 and March 2010 were identified. Exclusion criteria included age (>12 years), a prior or concurrent non-SCF elbow fracture or previous humeral osteotomy. The overall IDR of SCF fixation and for subgroups of age, sex and season were calculated. A multivariate regression (immediate and short-term re-operation) and a Cox proportional hazards model (long-term re-operation) were used to identify patient, injury and provider factors that influenced re-operation risk and were reported as odds ratios or hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 3235 patients with a median age of 6.0 years (interquartile range (IQR): 3.0) underwent SCF fixation. The median follow-up was 6.0 years (IQR: 3.7). The majority underwent a CRPP (78.7%) which were performed after hours (75.6%). The overall IDR was 20.7/100,000 person-years (py), but it varied significantly by season and age. Re-operation was uncommon in the immediate (1.0%), short-term (1.4%) and long-term (0.3%) follow-up period. As compared to CRPP, patients who underwent OR were more likely to undergo early nerve exploration (odds ratio: 7.8 (CI: 3.0-20.6)) and re-operation in the long term (HR: 3.0 (CI: 1.0-8.7)). Increased surgeon volume of SCF fixation was protective against repeat fixation (odds ratio: 0.9 (CI: 0.9-1.0)) and re-operation in the long term (HR: 0.9 (CI: 0.8-1.0)).

CONCLUSIONS

While SCF fixation is common, the rate of re-operation is low. No differences existed between the sexes and a higher volume of fixations occurred during the summer months.

Posterior intrafocal pinning for reduction of oblique, extension supracondylar humeral fractures in children: a technical note

A closed reduction technique using a posteriorly inserted intrafocal Kirschner wire for unstable Gartland type-III supracondylar humeral fractures in children is described. This surgical technique has been used in 7 patients. None had neurovascular complications, and all achieved bone union and had good or excellent functional and cosmetic results.

Surgical interventions for treating distal humeral fractures in adults

BACKGROUND

Distal humeral fractures in adults are relatively uncommon injuries that require surgical intervention in most cases. There is a lack of consensus regarding the best management of distal humeral fractures in adults, including the role of conservative treatment, appropriate surgical approach, fixation strategies, the role of total elbow arthroplasty and handling of nerves such as the ulnar nerve.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of surgical interventions for distal humeral fractures in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register (May 2012), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, 2012 Issue 4), MEDLINE (1946 to April Week 4 2012), EMBASE (1980 to 2012 Week 17), Current Controlled Trials (1st May 2012), the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (1st May 2012) and the bibliographies of trial reports and relevant articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials pertinent to the management of distal humeral fractures in adults were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed study selection, assessed of risk of bias and extracted data. Pooling of data was impossible due to study heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

Three small randomised controlled trials, with a total of 109 participants with Orthopaedic Trauma Association/Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (OTA/AO) type C distal humeral fractures, were included. Overall, the quality of the available evidence is limited. As well as the small sample sizes and detection bias from the lack of blinding of subjective outcomes, the methods and results of all three trials were incompletely reported.One trial, involving 42 participants, compared open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF) with total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in patients aged over 65 years. Of the 40 participants followed up for two years, five allocated ORIF underwent intraoperative conversion to TEA. These participants were crossed-over to the TEA group in the analyses. The reported Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) results were consistently better in the TEA group at follow-up after 6, 12, and 24 months, whereas the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, Hand (DASH) scores showed short term (after 6 months), but not longer term (after 12 and 24 months), superiority in the TEA group. The reoperation rate, complication rate and elbow range of motion results showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups. While an intention-to-treat analysis of treatment failure, where the five cross-over participants are placed in their original allocated group, is in favour of TEA, the result did not reach statistical significance (9/21 versus 3/21; RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.94 to 9.55).The second trial, involving 38 patients but reporting results for 35, compared perpendicular versus parallel double plate fixation strategies. There was a consistent finding of a lack of significant differences between the two treatment groups in terms of MEPS, re-operation for complications (3/17 versus 3/18; RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.25 to 4.54), complications and elbow joint range of motion.The third trial, which included 29 patients with preoperative ulnar nerve compression symptoms, compared anterior subfascial transposition with in situ decompression of the ulnar nerve. Although results for complete recovery of ulnar nerve function (12/15 versus 8/14; RR 1.4, 95% CI 0.83 to 2.35) and grades based on the Bishop rating system tended to favour the transposition group, none of the differences were statistically significant.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this review found there is either no or insufficient evidence from randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials to determine whether surgery is, and which surgical interventions are, the most appropriate for the management of different types of distal humerus fractures. Well designed and reported large and multi-centre randomised controlled trials testing current interventions, such as pre-contoured and locking plating systems, are needed.

The use of a joystick technique facilitates closed reduction and percutaneous fixation of multidirectionally unstable supracondylar humeral fractures in children

BACKGROUND

Multidirectionally unstable supracondylar fracture of the distal humerus presents with severe instability in both flexion and extension. Closed reduction and percutaneous fixation is challenging and may not be obtained by the traditional reduction maneuver.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 8 children (4 boys and 4 girls) with a mean age at presentation of 7.6 years (range, 5.3 to 10.9 y) who underwent closed reduction and percutaneous fixation using a joystick technique for the treatment of multidirectionally unstable supracondylar fractures. Clinical and functional results were assessed by the system described by Flynn. Radiographs at last follow-up were compared with those taken immediate after pinning as well as with normal contralateral elbow radiographs at final follow-up.

RESULTS

After an average follow-up of 14.5 months (range, 12 to 24 mo), there was no difference between the injured upper extremity and the contralateral side according to cosmetic, functional, and radiographic evaluation. There was no complication such as pin-site infection, loss of fixation, malunion, cubitus varus, iatrogenic nerve injury, or need for further surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The joystick technique is a safe and effective method that can avoid aggressive and frustrating attempts of closed reduction and further open reduction of multidirectionally unstable supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV-case series.

The treatment of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures: evidence-based guideline

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar humerus fractures are widely considered the most common fracture of the elbow in children. Fractures can range from a less severe, nondisplaced type I fracture to a more severe, displaced type III fracture with no cortical contact. Type III fractures can lead to adverse physical, social, and emotional consequences if they are not treated effectively. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recently carried out a systematic review of the literature to develop a clinical practice guideline. The guidelines provided answers for the following questions regarding the treatment for type III supracondylar fractures (1) which is the preferred treatment for displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus: reduction and casting versus closed reduction and percutaneous pinning; (2) which is the preferred method for fixing displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus: medial (crossed) versus lateral pinning; and lastly, (3) does open reduction cause increased stiffness or have a high rate of complication? The purpose of this paper is to summarize and highlight the major findings from this systematic review.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched to locate 1726 relevant articles published from January 1966 to July 29, 2010. Of these, 44 met our criteria for inclusion and were reviewed systematically.

RESULTS

On the basis of the results from the systematic review: (1) we suggest closed reduction with pin fixation for patients with displaced (eg, Wilkins type II and III and displaced flexion) pediatric supracondylar fractures of the humerus. (2) The practitioner might use 2 or 3 laterally introduced pins to stabilize the reduction of displaced pediatric supracondylar fractures of the humerus. Considerations of potential harm indicate that the physician might avoid the use of a medial pin. (3) The practitioner might perform open reduction for displaced pediatric supracondylar fractures of the humerus after closed reduction if varus or other malposition of the bone occurs.

CONCLUSIONS

Clearly, controversy exists regarding the best treatments for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. Properly designed randomized controlled trials comparing treatment options are necessary to determine optimal treatments.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

The treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures

Based on the best current evidence and a systematic review of published studies, 14 recommendations have been created to guide clinical practice and management of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. Two each of these recommendations are graded Weak and Consensus; eight are graded Inconclusive. The two Moderate recommendations include nonsurgical immobilization for acute or nondisplaced fractures of the humerus or posterior fat pad sign, and closed reduction with pin fixation for displaced type II and III and displaced flexion fractures.

Immobilization after pinning of supracondylar distal humerus fractures in children: use of the A-frame cast

BACKGROUND

Circumferential casts can contribute to elevated compartment pressures in the setting of acute swelling. We have developed a novel casting method (A-frame cast) that allows cast placement while leaving the antecubital fossa free of casting material. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and complications associated with acute placement of this definitive cast after closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) of acute supracondylar distal humerus fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective medical record reviewed 436 patients treated with CRPP of supracondylar fractures by 3 surgeons who routinely used an A-frame cast over a 12-year period. All complications or the need for cast modification were noted. Patients with open reduction, ipsilateral fractures, or patients lost to follow-up were excluded.

RESULTS

There were 387 patients who met inclusion criteria, including 204 type 2 fractures and 183 type 3 fractures. Forty-three patients had preoperative nerve palsy and 1 had preoperative vascular injury. Of these 387 patients, 369 (95.3%) had an uneventful postoperative course. Nineteen patients (4.9%) required either cast splitting (15) or strict elevation (4) secondary to pain and swelling. Seven of these 19 patients had preoperative nerve palsy and 1 had preoperative vascular injury. The average time from procedure to cast splitting was 17.6 hours. No patients lost their reduction or required a second surgical procedure related to a complication from casting.

CONCLUSIONS

An "A-frame" cast provides sturdy immobilization without increased risk of compartment syndrome after CRPP of supracondylar fractures in the pediatric population. Consideration should be given to splitting the cast prophylactically in patients with preoperative neurological or vascular deficits.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV-Case Series.

Comparison of complications and results of early versus delayed surgery for Gartland type III supracondylar humeral fractures in pediatric patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of timing of surgery on clinical results and perioperative complications in pediatric patients with Gartland III type supracondylar humeral fractures without neurovascular compromise.

METHODS

Eighty-six consecutive children treated surgically at our hospital from April 2005 to June 2007 for displaced supracondylar humeral fractures were reviewed. All these patients were treated by the same group of doctors. The children were divided into two groups: early if treated within 12 hours after injury and delayed if treated later than that. Perioperative complications and clinical results, especially for open surgery, were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Forty pediatric patients underwent surgery in the early group and 46 in the delayed group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in perioperative complications such as pin tract infection, iatrogenic nerve injury, compartment syndrome and conversion to open surgery. For open surgery, both the clinical results and perioperative complications were not affected by delaying for more than 12 hours after injury. However, blood loss and operation time were greater in the early than in the delayed group, possibly due to relatively more edema.

CONCLUSION

Delay in surgery, regardless of whether it is closed or open, for more than 12 hours after injury does not influence the perioperative complications and clinical results for displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in children. However early open reduction and pinning may increase intra-operative blood loss and take longer.

Comparison of anterior and lateral approaches in the treatment of extension-type supracondylar humerus fractures in children

Eighty-four patients who underwent open reduction and Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation for supracondylar humerus fractures through anterior or lateral approach with or without additional medial incisions were compared with regard to complications and end results. A total of 46 patients were operated through the anterior and 38 through the lateral approach. In lateral approach cases, medial incision was added only in those patients in whom the medial condyle and therefore the ulnar nerve were not easily distinguished due to excessive oedema. All the fractures were Gartland type III extension fractures. The patient series was consecutive, and lateral approach had a longer follow-up of 89 months (70-134 months); the incision protocol was changed approximately mid-series to the anterior approach, and therefore a shorter follow-up time of only 50 months (24-84 months) was possible. All patients were treated according to the same postoperative protocol. A follow-up examination was performed and all the patients were evaluated according to Flynn's criteria; loss of flexion or extension clinically, any deviation of the carrying angle radiologically, and the appearance of the incision scar were evaluated. According to the above parameters, results were excellent in 19, good in 18, and fair in one in the lateral incision group, whereas in the anterior incision group, excellent results were obtained in 31 patients and good results in 15 of them. Cosmetically, two patients in the lateral incision group had hypertrophic scar tissue, whereas the anterior incisions were barely noticeable as they were included into the flexion crease. In conclusion, we can say that anterior incision when open reduction is needed in pediatric supracondylar fractures offer the advantage of a smaller scar and easy access to structures that might be injured between the fractured fragments.

Medial and lateral crossed pinning versus lateral pinning for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children: decision analysis

BACKGROUND

The choice of pinning techniques in supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children has been a debate regarding its fixation stability and risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsy. This study was performed to determine as to which fixating method (medial and lateral crossed pinning vs. lateral pinning) is better for the displaced supracondylar fractures using a decision analysis tool in terms of function.

METHODS

A decision analysis model was designed containing the probability of iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsy and malunion caused by unstable fixation for each of lateral pinning and medial and lateral crossed pinning techniques. The final outcome was function adjusted life year and used as a utility in the decision tree, where function was evaluated using the McBride disability evaluation. The probabilities of all cases were obtained by literature review and assumptions. A roll back tool was used to determine the better pinning technique, and sensitivity analysis was performed to compensate for the uncertainty of the model.

RESULTS

Overall, our decision model favored the lateral pinning technique over the medial and lateral crossed pinning with the utilities of 99.6 and 99.3 in terms of function adjusted life year. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that the threshold rate of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury as a complication after medial and lateral crossed pinning was 0.7%, below which the model favored medial and lateral crossed pinning over lateral pinning. The decision model was found to be sensitive to the percentage of permanent ulnar nerve palsy after medial and lateral crossed pinning. Two-way sensitivity analysis showed that the lateral pinning technique was more beneficial than the medial and lateral crossed pinning technique.

CONCLUSIONS

In our decision analysis model, the lateral pinning technique was found to be more beneficial than the medial and lateral crossed pinning technique for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children, on the basis of current evidences. However, the results were sensitive to the data of ulnar nerve injury. Avoiding the worst clinical scenario (permanent ulnar nerve palsy) might be more important and affordable than obtaining favorable clinical results (stable fixation) at the potential cost of disastrous complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Controversial topics in the management of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in children

The aim of our study was to review the literature looking for the up to date information regarding these controversial topics. An electronic literature search was performed using the Medline/PubMed database. A closed reduction attempt should always be done first. It is more important to engage both columns as well as divergence of the pins no matter whatever configuration is applied. Time to surgery seems to be not an important factor to increase the risk of complications as well as open reduction rate. Usually neurological injuries present a spontaneous recovery. If there is absent pulse, we should follow the algorithm associated with the perfusion of the hand.

Iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury after the surgical treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus: number needed to harm, a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar fractures of the humerus are common pediatric elbow injuries. Most displaced or angulated fractures are treated by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, with either a crossed pin or lateral pin configuration. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine if there is an increased risk of iatrogenic nerve injury associated with the crossed pin configuration.

METHODS

Relevant articles were identified by searching electronic databases and hand searching-related journal and conference proceedings. Within each trial, the risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury was calculated for each pinning technique. For studies comparing crossed versus lateral pinning, the resulting trial-based differences in risk estimates were pooled using a random effects meta-analysis. A number needed to harm was determined using the pooled risk difference.

RESULTS

Thirty-two trials consisting of 2639 patients were used in the pooled analysis. The pooled risk difference of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury is 0.035 (95% confidence interval, 0.014-0.056), with a higher incidence of injury in the crossed pinning group. The weighed number needed to harm for the crossed pinning is 28 (95% confidence interval, 17-71).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this review suggest that there is an iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury for every 28 patients treated with the crossed pinning compared with the lateral pinning. Further research is necessary to ensure that the optimal pinning technique is chosen to treat these factors.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Does open reduction and pinning affect outcome in severely displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in children? A systematic review

Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the second most common fracture in children (16.6%) and the most common elbow fracture. These fractures are classified using the modified Gartland classification. Type III and type IV are considered to be totally displaced. A totally displaced fracture is one of the most difficult fractures to manage and may lead to proceeding to open procedures to achieve acceptable reductions. Many surgeons are concerned about its outcome compared to closed procedures. We therefore performed a systematic review of the literature to investigate the existing evidence regarding functional and radiological outcomes as well as postsurgical complications of primary open compared to primary closed reduction.